Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo set to pump $16 million into Wellington economy

17 Feb 2016

An influx of visitors for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo will see economic benefits spread throughout the region, Wellington Regional Economic Development Agency (WREDA) Chief Executive Chris Whelan says.

“Based on current ticket sales and projected new spend, the four days alone are going to be worth an estimated $16 million to the Wellington economy this summer.”

Over 80,000 tickets have been sold across four consecutive performances, and accommodation demand has seen multi-night bookings right across the region.

“It’s like having an All Black test double-header. The city and region are going to be buzzing and the atmosphere will be electric,” Mr Whelan says.

Accommodation has been in demand throughout the region. Michelle Kirkpatrick, Hotel Manager at Copthorne Hotel & Resort Solway Park in Masterton says the Tattoo has provided great exposure for the Wairarapa region.

“This has been a very successful event for the property. Located only an hour and a half away we are a good option for any guests unable to find accommodation in Wellington, and we have an extra six tour groups choosing to stay at the hotel over the four days.”

While Tattoo weekend was a particularly extraordinary event, Wellington is ripe for further property investment, Mr Whelan says.